End of an Era – Beginning of a New One

The Puget Sound Chapter of PMI (Project Management Institute) held their 2012 Volunteer celebration event last Thursday at Teatro Zin Zanni in Downtown Seattle.  My husband, Bill, and I have attended several volunteer events at Teatro Zin Zanni and other local venues in the past: We enjoyed both the show and the chance to spend time with PMI friends.  (Yes, that really is a feather boa… Some of my Boeing Internal Audit friends may remember me dragging it home from New Orleans as a decoration for my office. In the spirit of Teatro Zin Zanni, there were some pretty outrageously cool outfits on display that night…)

For me, this event was not only the end of the year and a chance to connect with those I had worked with for the past year: It marked the end of an era.  Later this month, I will be leaving the Board of Directors of the Puget Sound Chapter after 10 years as a volunteer.  I have thoroughly enjoyed the time I have spent getting to know members and leaders of PMI over the past ten years, as well as the opportunities to travel around the country; as I have served as VP Finance, VP Membership, President and Past President for this large (over 2,500 members) and vibrant Chapter.  But I know that just as I stepped away from active participation on the PMI ISSIG (Information Systems Specific Interest Group) Board several years ago, I will value the additional time I am reclaiming to be with friends and family.

Although I am more than ready to step down from my decade on the Puget Sound Board, I will really miss the ongoing interaction with my PMI friends. I want to thank all the members of the Puget Sound Chapter who have supported me and worked with me over the years: I commit that I will continue to maintain contact and support the Chapter…

Reducing my workload, by stepping down from this Board that has been such a large part of my life, was part of a plan put in motion several years ago. A plan to look more closely at how I am spending the precious hours of my life. I have become much more focused on ensuring that my life is balanced between staying Healthy, Active, and connected with my Children/Grandchildren and my Harley-riding friends; and the work I feel called to do. Those activities I take time for daily, such as my “morning routine”, are what allow me to stay focused and happy while I’m working.

What are the most important things/people in your life? Do the activities you are involved with during the hours of your day/week reflect your true life priorities? Are there some, like my participation on the PMI Board, that are taking too much of your time and should be replaced with other activities? It’s important to honor your commitments to others, but also important to make (and keep) the commitments to yourself that ensure you have an Abundant quality of Life….

Tags: Dreams, family and friends, Health, Productivity, Time Management